Lessons to learn from the Beirut municipal elections

The municipal elections in Beirut ended in failure for the so-called forces of "change," at least from the traditional perspective that equates victory with the number of seats won.Several factors have been cited to explain the outcome, including the alliance among sectarian leaders and the emigration of the youth. The division within the change-affiliated forces was also a topic of debate, as it was in 2016 and 2022. This division has become more pronounced than before, revealing two radically different political visions: one focused on people and identity, the other on a political program. And, this is where a political choice must be made for the future. Read more Saad Hariri’s (modest) revenge in Beirut's municipal elections? The 'Sulta': Individuals or a system?As in 2016, the forces opposed to sectarian...